This is a strong edition of vat 1, from a warm and dry season. The nose is all classic lemon and light toast with very attractive purity. The palate is teflon-like, smooth and sleek. So polished and so pure with pristine lemon flavors.
96 points, JamesSuckling.com (October 2020)
From old, dry-grown vineyards dating as far back as '23, hand picking and sorting eliminated botrytis, leaving a pure display of citrus fruits headed by lemon, with lime and grapefruit also in the mix, all framed by hallmark acidity. A wine in its infancy, its best years a long way into the next decade and beyond.
95 points, Wine Companion (September 2015)
Honey and some soapy perfume, white fruit like pears, plus mixed citrus and a flicker of pepper. Light in body, yet delivers plenty of flavour, ripe lime, lovely clean acidity – almost a sherbetty character – then a finish that’s light, delicate but very long. Precision and beauty. Good bet for the cellar too.
95 points, The Wine Front (August 2015)
Light, bright yellow colour, with a quite complex bouquet showing straw, dried herbs and the beginnings of toast. There is good intensity of flavour and the palate is full and complete, with sprightly acidity but also power and richness. The finish is long. A very good Vat 1. All it needs is time.
93 points, The Real Review (October 2020)
The Hunter Valley is the most important quality wine-producing region in New South Wales, even though it represents only a fraction of the state’s production. Established in the early 1800s, the first vignerons recognised that the coastal fringe north of Sydney was too wet and humid for viable viticulture and thus took the decision to move into the hinterland. Although the region can be particularly hot, the cloud and rainfall patterns significantly modify the microclimate. The Hunter Valley is maritime influenced, with afternoon sea breezes funnelling up through the Hunter River and Goulburn River gap. Rainfall is very erratic and can arrive at the most inopportune time. Soils are generally rich volcanic and alluvial. The best vineyard sites are located within sight of the imposing Brokenback Range that is exposed to the cool sea breezes. Further inland, the maritime influence gives way to a greater degree of continentality. The Hunter Valley is best known for exceptional age-worthy Semillon and fresh savoury medium-bodied Shiraz, although Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay also perform well.
